Overview & Reviews

Inspired by the panel vans of the1930s, the Chrysler PT Cruiser caused quite a buzz when it was first released, for model year 2001. It was one of a few vehicles to herald the new retro trend and became an instant success.

As an entire decade passed, the PT's utility and versatility remained intact, but the hype surrounding it faded. Such was the life of the PT Cruiser: a bright spot for Chrysler that was ultimately left alone while other practical yet smartly styled hatchback/wagons were introduced. From a used car purchase standpoint, however, the PT is still a respectable choice, especially considering that you'll have plenty of examples to choose from given its decade in production.

Most Recent Chrysler PT Cruiser
The Chrysler PT Cruiser was produced from 2001-'10 as a four-door wagon, and from 2005-'08 as a two-door convertible. Despite sharing its platform with the much-maligned Neon, it drove better than its DNA would suggest. It was also versatile, with a maximum cargo space of 76 cubic feet, and there was ample seating space and headroom. The rear seats could fold down or be removed completely, and a two-tiered luggage area further enhanced the PT's usability.

Throughout its run, the standard engine was a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produced 150 horsepower. A five-speed manual and four-speed automatic were available. Acceleration was adequate, but fuel economy was poor for a small wagon. For 2003, Chrysler added a turbocharged GT model; it originally produced 215 horses and later 230 for 2006. It was discontinued for '07. Those desiring more power after that time could opt for a 180-hp turbo engine on certain trims from 2004-'09.

Besides a minor interior styling refresh for '06 and the gradual addition of more features such as an auxiliary audio jack or Bluetooth, the PT Cruiser was otherwise unchanged.

In road tests, our editors found the Chrysler PT Cruiser to be an entertaining drive. It handled adequately, and its overall ride quality was smooth. The Cruiser's utility also bettered that of many compact crossovers. The main downsides included the tepid acceleration of the base engine and poor fuel economy. In its later years, the PT's design also became stale compared to newer competing hatchbacks and wagons. As for the convertible, its fixed roll bar made access to the backseat tricky and top-up visibility was a perpetual issue. We weren't enamored with it at the time, but it could be a good pick if you're looking for an affordable and stylish drop top.

User Reviews:

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  GT is out of sight!! - 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By lubbie1 - November 23 - 2:00 am

  Only had the car a few months. No problems to report what so ever. GT turbo is awsome. Acceleration is great. Handles like a sports car. Interior controls take awhile to get used to. Gas mileage seems to be around 20 mpg on the highway. High output Turbo requires Premium gas. Gas mileage would be better if lead foot is left at home.

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  Lots of fun!! - 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Frankie - November 21 - 2:33 pm

  I have only had my PT Cruiser for a month but a week after we got it we went on vacation to the Great Smokey Mountains. It was wonderful riding through the mountains with the top down. The transmission was great going up and down the mountains. We didnt use the brakes much. I love the get up and go and the sound of the turbo. The trunk held all of our luggage, plus. You just have to bend over more to get to the trunk but that was fine. I traded a Lincoln Aviator for this car and it was the best thing I have done in a long time. No regrets!!

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  Avoid all PTs regardless of year - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By wolff - November 18 - 10:00 am

  This car has great body lines, turns a lot of heads, and at times can be fun to drive. My PT is 3 years old and is worth only $2000 more than what I sold my 1997 Neon for. It does not hold its value and all Chrysler dealerships are EXTREMELY UNPLEASANT to work with when dealing with problems (Ive been to 3 different ones and had to embarass the manager in front of other customers to get the car fixed - and it was a SAFETY ISSUE). This is the last chrysler product I will ever buy and wouldnt recommend their products to any one...EVER.

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  Dont think I would buy american again. - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By willb - November 14 - 2:50 am

  By day 8 check engine light came on. They did nothing more than reset it & it would always relight within a day or 2. This car was in the dealership more than at home the first year. so many things went on with this car I couldnt even begin to report it all here. They also always wiggled out of letting me use the warranty on alot of the repairs. So as a result I have spent thousands in parts and labor. Now that I have found a reliable independent mechanic and have replaced most parts on it its now reliable and fun to drive so many years later. The dealership was a nightmare from day one. Was called back after 1 wk to redo sales contract (from 0% interest to 5%)

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  Good Gas Mileage? Whats That?? - 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By MilNEMGaL - November 13 - 10:00 am

  I love the looks, the versatility, almost everything BUT the darned gas mileage!! I get between 16 and 19 per gallon on a 4 cylinder car! Thats unacceptable!

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  Get ready for several recalls - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Shayen George - November 13 - 10:00 am

  Chrysler trying to capitalzie on the popularity of the orginal PT model is now building them very quickly, with very cheap components. Mine has been in the shop 3 times in as many months. The transmission went out as I was driving the car home from the dealership. Also, the seals in the right rear break cylinder failed, causing break failure. Also, the 6 CD changer had to be replaced. While this last problem was minor compared to the first 2, it does suggest some serious problems with quality control.

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  fun car - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By tonyaes - November 13 - 10:00 am

  have standard 5 speed base model even dealer was amazed at all you get in base model. Only downside not real fast like turbo but well worth the money.Get many compliments and looks very sharp car with plenty of room for 4 adults. Easy get in-out.

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  Fuzzys finds - 2003 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Carol Smith - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Ive turned on the windshield wipers a few times by mistake. The A/C & heat are a problem to adjust so far. Its got alot of pep.It turns on a dime.Handles great.The radio is very good --less static. I like the sunroof & heated seats. Most things are convenient. a sunroof that opens in both directions--for less noise. The window controls are located in the middle,so both driver & passenger can use them. The only thing I didnt like is, the gauge for P-N-D-R is located a little low for me.

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  I Love My PT Convertible - 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Pasquale Capocci - November 3 - 2:06 am

  For the price it is a really nice car. It is very roomy and comfortable for a convertible. I drove it all winter and it is very quit with the top up, you forget you are driving a convertible.

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  Mileage could be better - 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser
  By Atum - November 1 - 1:20 am

  I purchased my cruiser in May 2007 when I transferred form NYC to Ft Lauderdale after I had rented one for my interview and I loved the way it handled and the mileage wasnt bad but it was not as good as other cars of the same category which is a shame considering that this car is really cool looking and handles extremely well. I did not have to change brake pads until I hit 30000 miles in 2010 but then again changing brakes has a lot to do with ones driving not the pads themselves and thats considering Im a bit of a speed demon :)